All valid points however let me reiterate again. The proposed new Performing Arts Center would be established and run as a non-profit corporation. Since it would not be part of The Villages of Lake Sumter, Inc. or the the Developer, nor would it be run by either the VCDDD or SLCDD or any other governmental entity there would be no impact on amenity fees or increased taxes (other than all local governmental agencies agree that should a Performing Arts Center be built there would be an increase tax revnues from increased ticket sales, increased revenues from over night stays by talent and supporting staff, and addiitoanl employment.
Why would Mr. Morse want to assist? I would think that like our numerous golf courses, our Villages Hospital, Freedom pointe, our Pools, softball fields, etc. a new Performing Arts Center that would attract TOP talent and increased Cultural activities is a additional benefit that continues to make The Villages the top retirement community in America and that translates into increased home sales. Yes it is a business. That's ok.
Funding would come from fund raising efforts, from our residents, local businessess (especially those that stand to gain from reveues generated by an expanded Performing Arts Center), and other national corporations ad foundations that donate money for cultural activities, as well as ticket sales and rental of the property for various meetings. Which corporation would like to have naming rights for a new Perforing Arts Center in the hear of the best retirement community in America??????
How many people travel to Orlando, Tampa or Gainesville to see a "Broadway" show? a symphony orchestra? Jimmy Buffett??? We are a community approaching 100,000 or more people (not including surrounding towns and other developments) why shouldn't we have a top notch facility here???? As for why Mr. Morse should be encouraged to donate land for such a facility? Peraps to make it more convenient for the majority of residents to travel to and attend these events. Perhaps another feather in his cap? Perhaps as a memorial for founder Harold Schwartz who was a supporter of the arts.
and if he doesn't donate the land? then land will be found, costs will increase, traveling will be alittle more inconvenient, competition with Savannah Center will cause additional financial risk for both, Mr. Morse will loose an opportunity to have a beautiful state-of-the art facility located within The Villages. Remember Mr. Morse has recently donated land to Sumter County for a new government building, and of course the new VA facility. Why??? because it makes the community that much more desirable and that sells houses. That' ok. Its a win-win for both Mr. Morse and the residents. Its that mix of generousity and business acumen that makes a sucessful businessman and a desirable community.
Of course, you can decide that this issue is not important to you. The AAC will buy new chairs for Savannah Center, we will continue to be uncomfortable, many will continue to travel to Orland/Tampa/Gainesville for a higher level of culture and entertainment, many of us will tire of the impersonators, ticket prices will continue to slowly increase, new residents who desire to be nearer a more enhanced cultural setting may decide to look elsewhere, Savannah Center will be pushed to its max.
By the way for comparison Savannah Center was "sold" to the residents for $65 million - a new state-of-the Art, comfortable Performing Arts Center will probably be 10% to 20% of that amount. Our amenity fees are paying the debt service for Savannah Center, and the new chairs will also be paid from Amenity fees as well.
In addition any "improvements" thru new chairs or permanent seating will not only be expensive but also reduce the amount of seating available. And when that is finished the acts will remain the same, the sound will be poor, the temperature will be hard to control, our increased numbers of physically impaired residents will still find it hard to see the stage, the lighting will be intolerable, we will be unable to see a decent event that requires scenery, and dancers will still require safety harness to keep from falling off the stage.
The choice is yours. If you agree now is the time to speak up. If you don't thanks for your interest in at least reading and participting in this discussion.
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